The ‘Thinking Time’ strand is a philosophical approach to primary education which combines child-led (philosophy with children) and teacher-led (philosophy for children) pedagogies.
The ‘Thinking time’ strand aims to enable children to develop a deeper understanding of their own perspective and their ability to enter into dialogue with other children, to cultivate debate and the capacity to argue respectfully.
For practical advice on how to plan for an implement ‘Thinking Time’ please see the support material for ‘Thinking Time’ here. The resources on this page aim to assist teachers in establishing a community of inquiry in their classrooms and offers practical advice and ideas for how to implement ‘Thinking Time’.
Thinking games can be used prior to introducing your class to a full ten step enquiry. They can help prepare children to think philosophically and to develop the dispositions and skills necessary to engage in a community of enquiry.
Picture books are also a great starting point for ‘Thinking Time’ and can help to develop the skills, language and dispositions children will need for a ten-step philosophical inquiry.
The example below, based on the picture book ‘Where the Wild Things Are’, was created by Joanna Haynes and Karin Murris. It is a good illustration of planning around picture books as well demonstrating how one picture book can provide a great deal of ‘Thinking Time’ lessons and activities.
Classroom displays are really important to help support learning. Key terms, questions, concepts and opinions can all be displayed to ensure thinking becomes a regular part of learning. For example, students can engage with weekly exercises in their break times with a simple Would You Rather display.
For support visit Visible Thinking Online Suggestions . Here you will find a range of ideas and downloadable resources like the example below.